Curated by Archana Khare-Ghose
Dhoomimal Gallery proudly presents In Dialogue, Across Time, a landmark exhibition that brings together two remarkable artists – Anupam Sud, one of India’s most celebrated printmakers and painters, and Harshdeep Kaur, a dynamic contemporary voice in Indian art. The exhibition runs at Bikaner House, New Delhi, from 19th to 25th September 2025.
This exhibition is not merely a pairing of two artists but an intergenerational conversation – a dialogue between a teacher and her student. Sud, often called the “first lady of Indian printmaking,” taught at the College of Art, Delhi, for over two decades (1977–2003), inspiring generations of artists to find their own visual language. Harshdeep Kaur, who graduated from the same institution in 2003, represents a younger generation exploring themes of spirituality, identity, and portraiture with sensitivity and command.
Curator Archana Khare-Ghose describes the show as “a rare convergence where mentorship evolves into dialogue, and two distinct artistic journeys are brought into conversation with each other.”
The exhibition features watercolours by Anupam Sud, a relatively lesser-known aspect of her practice, offering a fresh glimpse into her celebrated draughtsmanship. Known for her printmaking mastery and figurative compositions, Sud’s watercolours carry the same sensitivity and precision but in a more intimate, fluid medium.
In dialogue with Sud’s work are Harshdeep Kaur’s portraits, landscapes, and allegorical paintings, exploring both the external and internal worlds. Her practice draws from Sikh spirituality, everyday life, and the human form, using diverse media including acrylics on canvas, Chinese ink on rice paper, and watercolours. Notably, the exhibition also features Kaur’s portrait of Anupam Sud – a deeply personal work marked “NFS” (not for sale) – which Sud herself admires.
What makes this exhibition compelling is not imitation but independence. While Kaur openly acknowledges Sud’s influence – particularly her figurative compositions and intricate drawings – she has evolved her own artistic language. As critic and curator Archana Khare-Ghose notes, “The real beauty of this show lies in the independence of voices. The teacher does not overshadow the student; instead, their works stand as equals, creating a dialogue that is rich, layered, and full of discovery.”
Harshdeep Kaur shares: “To be showing alongside Anupam-ji is an honour and a responsibility. It has pushed me to work harder and think deeper. This is a moment of validation and confidence for me.”
Anupam Sud adds: “Harshdeep and I found a shared rhythm in the way we respond to art. This show is an extension of those conversations – a dialogue that goes beyond words.”
In Dialogue, Across Time is an invitation to witness two distinct yet connected artistic journeys unfold side by side. It is a celebration of mentorship, growth, and the timeless cycle of learning and creating — where the teacher inspires the student, and the student, in turn, inspires the teacher.
Featuring Image Courtesy: Dhoomimal Gallery
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